Tuesday, March 1, 2016
VDOT response to snow/ice blocking sidewalk near school
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| Blocked sidewalk near three Fairfax County schools |
Thank you for contacting the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Customer Service Center with your request.
While VDOT does not remove snow from sidewalks or trails, crews are asked to be mindful of pushing large amounts of snow onto sidewalks, driveways, etc. With major storms, it is often an unintended consequence of making roads passable. VDOT is sorry for this inconvenience, but to make as many roads passable as quickly as possible, there is no way to avoid it
Please call the Customer Service Center if you have further questions. We appreciate your efforts to help keep Virginia roads safe.
The snow in question was put on the sidewalk by a VDOT crew when it was decided to clear the street from curb to curb. They could have left some snow in the road; the road was passable before they dumped the piles of snow on the sidewalk. Basically the message is, it's more important to make sure the road is completely clear of snow than it is to have a sidewalk passable for kids walking to and from school. I see kids and adults walking in the street every day at this location.While VDOT does not remove snow from sidewalks or trails, crews are asked to be mindful of pushing large amounts of snow onto sidewalks, driveways, etc. With major storms, it is often an unintended consequence of making roads passable. VDOT is sorry for this inconvenience, but to make as many roads passable as quickly as possible, there is no way to avoid it
Please call the Customer Service Center if you have further questions. We appreciate your efforts to help keep Virginia roads safe.
I will say that the myVDOT site for reporting road problems works. Usually within a day or two you will receive a response regarding any problems reported. It may not be the response you want but it will be a response. The forms are geared toward reporting road problems and that needs to be updated, but the service works well.
Today was the Fairfax Co Board of Supervisors' Snow Summit. We'll report on the summit in a later post.
Labels: snow, snow plowing, snowzilla
Sunday, February 21, 2016
Fairfax Co Parkway Trail still blocked by snow/ice
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| FFX Co Pkwy Trail near W&OD trail |
We haven't checked out the parkway trail north and south of the W&OD Trail so we're hoping that most of the trial is clear. If you know the status please leave a comment.
Waiting for the snow to melt is not a snow clearing strategy. For a month bike commuters and pedestrians have not been able to use this part of the parkway trail and many, many other trails and sidewalks in the county, including those adjacent to several schools.
When people say that we can't afford to clear snow on these facilities, that you'll just have to wait for it to melt, what they are saying is that walking and biking aren't important. Imagine having the parkway or any road in the county being closed for a month. People wouldn't stand for it and we shouldn't either. Major transportation trails and ped/bike access routes to transit are critical and the county and VDOT need to develop a plan to deal with snow removal on those facilities. The Board of Supervisors' March 1 snow summit is the time to start. Please let Chairman Bulova know what you think about not being able to use major bike/ped facilities for a month.
Labels: snow, snow plowing, snow summit
Tuesday, February 16, 2016
Snow/Ice Still Blocking Trails in Fair Lakes Area
We received this note and photo from Robert Walker about trails in the Fair Lakes area. Even with the rain and warmer temperatures, trails are still blocked with snow and ice: |
| Snow and ice on trails in Fair Lakes area |
Yep, just like I thought they would.
Snow mountains as far as the eye can see down the trail.
Maybe they'll be clear by March.
Not holding my breath though.
VDOT motto: Cars first, pedestrians.....what are pedestrians?
Labels: fair lakes, snow, snow summit
Monday, February 8, 2016
Two Weeks After Snowstorm Trails and Sidewalks Still Blocked
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| Snow on sidewalk adjacent to Langston Hughes MS, South Lakes HS and Terraset ES. Photo taken today, 2/8/2016 |
According to Chairman Bulova's Facebook page: "Our Board will hold a 'Snowzilla Summit' at our March 1st Board Meeting, and we will invite officials from VDOT and our own County staff. The purpose of the Summit is first to thank them for the good job they did responding to the blizzard of 2016, but also to examine how we want to address some issues that were problematic (such as the need for clearing pedestrian facilities, school bus stops and commuter bus shelters)."
We look forward to the snow summit and are glad that Chairman Bulova identified the need for clearing pedestrian facilities. It will take more than a snow summit to fix the problem. The Board needs to find the resources to ensure people are not forced to walk in the street to access Metro, schools, and other important destinations. We need to identify critical transportation trails that should be cleared. Property owners in these areas need to help. The county can follow the lead of NOVA Parks and Reston Association which have both devoted resources to clearing snow on the W&OD and RA trails. The county needs to work with VDOT to ensure that already cleared trails and sidewalks are not used as snow dumping grounds.
According to the WTOP article about the summit, "Fairfax County residents with feedback or questions they would like addressed at the “snow summit” can email Chairman@fairfaxcounty.gov." If you're concerned about blocked ped and bike access after the latest snow storm, contact Chairman Bulova.
Labels: snow, snow plowing, snow summit
Sunday, February 7, 2016
Dr Gridlock on the Importance of Urban Trails
In the Sunday Post Dr Gridlock devotes an entire column on the importance of trails as part of our transportation network: We need to accept urban trails as part of the commuter network. While the focus of the article is the clearing of bike commuter trails on National Park Service land, it applies to all of our regional major paved trails. We are very grateful that NovaParks and Reston Association have devoted resources to clearing snow from the W&OD Trail and over 50 miles of RA trails. They have set an example for Fairfax Co to do the same for our major transportation trails.Update: See GGW's David Alpert's opinion piece also in the Sunday Post: Walkers were left out in the cold after the 'Snozilla' blizzard.
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| Snow blocking trail access to Wiehe-Reston East Metro station |
From the Dr Gridlock article:
Times have changed, and trails in urban areas are commuter routes for many. In recognition of that, the park service in the capital region is considering a change in its policy that would incorporate the trails into the post-storm cleanup plans.
That’s a welcome idea to Gregory Billing, the executive director of the Washington Area Bicyclist Association. You may see fewer people out on bikes in the winter, but cold weather doesn’t stop people from commuting via bicycle. Ice and snow on the trail does stop them.
If a cyclist can’t use a bike lane on a city street, the commuter can shift to a regular lane. Commuters who use trails, such as the popular Mount Vernon Trail along the Virginia side of the Potomac River, are in a tougher spot. “Often, there are no safe alternatives for miles,” Billing said.
We have written to our local House representative and others urging them to coordinate with VDOT to prioritize snow clearing efforts to provide safe access to Metro stations, schools, and along major commuting trails. Chairman Bulova plans to hold a snow summit and cyclists and pedestrians need to make sure the county gets the message that we deserve safe passage on major access routes. |
| Snow dumped on Wiehle Ave trail by VDOT contractor on an already passable road |
That’s a welcome idea to Gregory Billing, the executive director of the Washington Area Bicyclist Association. You may see fewer people out on bikes in the winter, but cold weather doesn’t stop people from commuting via bicycle. Ice and snow on the trail does stop them.
If a cyclist can’t use a bike lane on a city street, the commuter can shift to a regular lane. Commuters who use trails, such as the popular Mount Vernon Trail along the Virginia side of the Potomac River, are in a tougher spot. “Often, there are no safe alternatives for miles,” Billing said.
Labels: snow, snow plowing, snow summit
Friday, January 29, 2016
VDOT contractors blocking cleared trails in Reston - Update: NBC4 coverage in Springfield
Today while walking to the Wiehe-Reston East Metro station I noticed a VDOT contractor dumping snow on the Wiehle Ave trail leading to the station. The same crew had just blocked a previously cleared trail on Sunrise Valley Dr leading to the Wiehle trail. Reston Association crews have been out clearing most of the 50 miles of Reston trails only to have VDOT crews block them.Reston Association has budgeted funds to maintain their trails, including having a fleet of snow plows. Fairfax County needs to figure out how to make areas around Metro stations and schools safe for their residents.
The first photo shows the once cleared trail on Sunrise Valley Dr.
The next photo shows the front loader dumping huge piles of snow on the Wiehle Ave trail.
At the entrance to the Wiehle Station at Reston Station Blvd and Wiehle Ave, the Wiehle trail is blocked and I saw two pedestrians walking in the road in the short time I was there.
The Lake Thoreau trail along Sunrise Valley Dr was cleared by Reston Association crews earlier this week. Today the VDOT crews blocked it, which has happened multiple times in the past.
The Lake Thoreau trail near South Lakes Village Center blocked by snow from the road. This trail was passable earlier. I was forced into busy South Lakes Dr to get around the pile.
Update 30 Jan: The same situation occurred in West Springfield as reported by NBC4 in their story Plow Crew Dumped Snow Onto Cleared Sidewalk in VA. After a resident notified NBC4 about the problem, VDOT crews were out to clear the sidewalk. That was Greeley Blvd that is a two lane road. The snow being cleared was for on-road parking. VDOT must have lots of money to clearing free on-road parking; maybe that money should be used for major transportation trails.
Labels: snow, snow plowing
Fairfax to residents: Take Your Snow and Shovel It
Fairfax County does not have a sidewalk/trail snow removal policy. The Board of Supervisors has discussed the issue many, many times. They've held snow summits. What's the outcome of all this talk? A web page that tells residents to Take Your Snow and Shovel It. While we agree that it's good to encourage residents to clear snow from sidewalks, this is not a very impressive outcome of all the talk.
It seems that every time it snows lately, the excuse is that it's a once in a lifetime storm and the county and VDOT can't be expected to make it safe for pedestrians and cyclists to get around. We don't accept that anymore. Maybe there should be a moratorium on transportation spending for new projects until the state and county can figure out how to maintain our existing infrastructure.
We also need a snow removal ordinance. Arlington and Alexandria require residents to clear snow on their sidewalks and the county needs to do the same, with exceptions for those who physically can't remove the snow and a county-organized volunteer program to help others.
Labels: snow, snow plowing, snow summit
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
W&OD Trail not very clear in Reston
Today we drove by sections of the W&OD Trail in Reston. At Old Reston Ave (first photo below), looking west, it looked like a snow plow or blower had made a pass up to Old Reston Ave. To me this looks like the tracks of a Reston Association plow. Maybe they were just using the W&OD Trail to get from Reston Parkway to Old Reston Ave. |
| Looking west at Old Reston Ave |
As you can see below, to the east there were only footprints in the snow with a pile of snow at the trail entrance.
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| Looking east at Old Reston Ave |
The next photo was taken at Newton Square looking west. Someone had cleared a narrow track on the short stretch of trail from Newton Square to the next service road (across from BAE).
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| Looking west at Newton Square |
In the photo below, looking east, only one or two tracks of footprints were visible.
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| Looking east at Newton Square |
At Wiehle Ave there was no sign of any plowing/blowing in either direction. The same was true at Sunrise Valley Dr. It's going to be a long time before the trail is passable in Reston.
At Sunset Hills Road we saw several people walking in the road, which is very dangerous given that in several areas only one lane in each direction is clear, which was true for most four lane roads. Most intersections had mountains of snow blocking the trails and sidewalks.
Labels: snow, snow plowing, W and OD Trail
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Reston Association to Plow Snow on County Trails in Reston
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| County trails in Reston [click on image for pdf version] |
The RA Board agreed to "authorize Reston Association’s CEO to enter into trail maintenance agreements with Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the Fairfax County Park Authority to provide limited routine maintenance on County-owned trails in Reston, subject to the review and approval of the Association’s land use counsel."
According to the draft snow removal agreement (p. 117), RA will "provide routine maintenance on approximately 1.5 miles of County and Park Authority owned trails throughout Reston. Such routine maintenance will include general debris removal, minor asphalt patching, pruning/edge mowing, leaf removal as necessary, and snow plowing. In the proposed agreement, the County trails will be repaired before the Association accepts any routine maintenance responsibility (including especially problematic stretches such as those on Wiehle Avenue and Sunrise Valley Drive), and the County will be responsible for major repairs and capital replacement." (emphasis added).
According to Reston Now, RA will cover the $15,000 cost for this routine maintenance. Reston currently spends over $800,000/year to maintain their 55 miles of trails. This year Fairfax County budgeted a measly $300,000 for "emergency and critical maintenance requirements for County trails (229 miles), sidewalks (425 miles) and (67) pedestrian bridges." Can't we do better than that? Is it any wonder that our exiting trails are crumbling and that almost none of them are plowed in the winter?
Kudos to Reston Association for helping bicyclists and pedestrians safely reach the Wiehle station and other nearby destinations throughout the year. Fairfax County needs to fund basic maintenance of their trails and come up with a plan for clearing snow near important destinations such as activity and transit centers. NoVa Parks recently agreed to plow the W&OD Trail. It's time for Fairfax County to get with the program.
Labels: reston association, snow, snow plowing, trail maintenance
Friday, March 6, 2015
Clearing snow from trails - Reston Association and NVRPA - Update
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| Lake Thoreau trail in Reston on Friday, March 6 at 8am |
RA has 4 small Bombardier snow plows. Staff are usually plowing trails shortly after snow ends. A year ago almost to the day we interviewed Brian Murphy of Reston Association about RA's process for plowing the Reston trails. Brian noted that even though RA uses plows, damage to the trail from plowing is rare.
The trail at the right is at Lake Thoreau, a very popular trail leading to South Lakes Village Center. Because of the recent heavy snowfall and ice from the earlier snow, there is still some snow and ice on the trail but that will melt fairly quickly once the air temperature rises. Usually the Reston trails are completely clear of snow and ice after the plows move through.
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| W&OD Trail on Friday, March 6 at noon |
As you can see from the photo taken this morning, the blower hadn't yet made it to Reston behind the YMCA although lots of people have already been walking there. You can see that there's also plenty of room for the lone cross country skier who had just passed, not to mention the unpaved side path that can also be used for skiing.
Last year at this time, Paul Gilbert, Executive Director of the Northern Virginia Regional Park Authority, wrote the blog entry Snow on the W&OD Trail and outlined NVRPA's policy on clearing snow on the trail:
Because the Regional Park Authority does not have the resources to rebuild the trail after every snowy winter, our preferred snow removal technology is blowing the snow. While blowers have an impact, it is less than the plows. In 2009 NVRPA invested in significant pavement markings to improve safety. These markings include rumble strips prior to every intersection, "Stop Ahead" lettering and other markings. In 2012/13 we added a highly reflective center stripe, again to enhance safety. With a ten foot wide, and 45 mile long paved trail, we are re-paving areas of the trail, and placing the markings in the re-paved areas every year as part of our ongoing maintenance, to keep it as the premium trail in the region. This maintenance investment means that every inch of the trail is rebuilt about every ten years.
For significant snow fall of more than a few inches, and when the weather forecast calls for below freezing temperatures for a number of days, NVRPA will start in Arlington and clear the trail of snow with its snow blower moving west. If it is a very minor snow with a forecast for warm temperature and sunshine within a day or two, we will likely let mother nature clear the trail.
Update, Sunday, March 8: By yesterday afternoon the NVRPA snow blower had made a pass along the W&OD Trail and by Sunday it looked
like most sections of the trail were passable.For significant snow fall of more than a few inches, and when the weather forecast calls for below freezing temperatures for a number of days, NVRPA will start in Arlington and clear the trail of snow with its snow blower moving west. If it is a very minor snow with a forecast for warm temperature and sunshine within a day or two, we will likely let mother nature clear the trail.
Labels: bombardier, NVRPA, reston association, snow
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
W&OD Trail not quite clear in Reston area
Long sections of the W&OD Trail are still snow and ice covered in the Reston area. According to NVRPA staff, the recent snowfall amount was not enough to allow them to use their snow blower. It's unfortunate because there is enough snow that it will likely cover sections of the trail for several days. NVRPA did have a crew out clearing snow at some of the intersections.You can see from the first photo below that there's lots of ice and snow from Old Reston Ave toward the east for as far as you can see. You can also see the tire tracks of the NVRPA truck that passed through.
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| Looking east near Old Reston Ave |
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| Looking east toward Wiehle Ave |
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| Sidewalks at Wiehle station, looking west from Wiehle Ave |
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| Wiehle Ave trail looking south |
Labels: snow, W and OD Trail, wiehle-reston east
Monday, March 3, 2014
How Reston trails are plowed
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| Reston Association snow plow |
The photo on the right of the RA plow was taken this afternoon. The trails had been plowed once already and this was the second pass, after the snow had stopped.
Here are Brian's answers:
Do you have a rough estimate of the average cost/year of clearing snow form Reston's trails over the past several years?
We do use a deicer and mostly sand on parts of the system that is sidewalk or steps that we clear by hand or snow blower.
Does one plow cover the entire trail system or do you use several?
The pathway system is divided up into four parts and each run can take 5-6 hours depending on the snow.
Do you think there is much damage to the trail related to the plowing?
We do not get much asphalt damage to the trail unless we catch the edge of a patch which is rare.
Do you get much positive or negative feedback about the plowing?
All the feedback we get on pathway plowing is positive unless we veer off the path and have to go back and reseed areas.
NVRPA has historically said they leave snow on their trails to accommodate cross country skiers. Is that a concern for you?
I don’t have cost for clearing the pathway since we do not budget plowing separately. We use our existing staff and since snow prevents us from doing other tasks it is a wash. The plowing involves four operators and two mechanics. The mechanics also plow the parking lots. We have three hand crews of four staff members each. The major cost is the equipment we have to purchase.
What kind of plow(s) do you use and how much did they cost?
What kind of plow(s) do you use and how much did they cost?
They are made by Bombardier, a Canadian company. A new plow will cost about $85,000. We have always bought used plows for about $12,000 each. Three are from 1979 and one that is from 1986.
How does the process work? Do you try to estimate the optimal time to plow by monitoring the weather forecast? How much snow do you need to have on the trail before you consider plowing? How do the plowing crews know where to plow?
How does the process work? Do you try to estimate the optimal time to plow by monitoring the weather forecast? How much snow do you need to have on the trail before you consider plowing? How do the plowing crews know where to plow?
We usually start plowing at 2 inches unless they are calling for the snow to end soon. We go at 2” so we can mark the path when we get significant snowfall. If we don’t we could lose the location of the trail. We need to get more than an inch to allow us to plow. Our plow operators have years of experience so they know the pathways and you can see the edge of the pathways by a dip in the snow outlining the path. Sometimes you do leave the pathway and have to do a correction.
Do you ever use salt or sand?
We do use a deicer and mostly sand on parts of the system that is sidewalk or steps that we clear by hand or snow blower.
Does one plow cover the entire trail system or do you use several?
The pathway system is divided up into four parts and each run can take 5-6 hours depending on the snow.
Do you think there is much damage to the trail related to the plowing?
We do not get much asphalt damage to the trail unless we catch the edge of a patch which is rare.
Do you get much positive or negative feedback about the plowing?
All the feedback we get on pathway plowing is positive unless we veer off the path and have to go back and reseed areas.
NVRPA has historically said they leave snow on their trails to accommodate cross country skiers. Is that a concern for you?
The paths are such an important transportation route in Reston that we feel it is more important to keep them clear rather than only provide for recreation like skiers.
Anything else I should know that you haven't already discussed?
Anything else I should know that you haven't already discussed?
We actually prefer to plow at night to get to the path before too much traffic appears.
Labels: reston association, snow
Saturday, March 1, 2014
March-April 2014 FABB Newsletter
MARCH-APRIL 2014 FABB News
A bi-monthly publication of Fairfax Advocates for Better Bicycling
Bicycle Master Plan Public Hearings Scheduled
The Fairfax Co Bicycle Program Manager recently announced dates for public hearings on the Countywide Bicycle Master Plan. The Planning Commission hearing is scheduled for Thursday, May 8 in the evening, and the Board of Supervisors hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, June 17. Both hearings will be held at the Fairfax County Government Center. This is a great opportunity for you to show your support for better bicycling in the county, either by attending a public hearing or writing a letter of support to your county Supervisor.
FABB plans to hold rides to the public hearings. Having a number of cyclists present at the hearings shows we care about our community and that we want the Board to approve the plan. The plan is not yet available on the county website but FABB has posted the July 2012 Draft Bicycle Master Plan text and maps (see FABB homepage for map links).
Wiehle Station Bike Room Applications Being Taken
Fairfax County DOT recently sent out applications to over 130 cyclists who requested information about renting a space in the new Wiehle-Reston East Metro station bike room. The room has capacity for over 200 bikes. Rates for use of the bike room are $40 for six months or $60 for a year plus a one-time $15 fee for a key fob. See the Wiehle Bike Room page for details and to request an information packet or see the FABB blog for other details, including the bike room FAQ.
Fairfax County Parkway Trail Repair to Begin in March
VDOT recently held an information meeting on the Fairfax County Parkway Trail repair project scheduled to begin this month. The first phase of the project will extend from Route 7 to Route 29, although the section around the I-66 overpass will not be included. Only the most damaged sections of the trail will be repaved. Where large cracks have developed but the remainder of the trail is in good condition, the cracks will be sealed. Where the asphalt has deteriorated, those sections will be repaved.
The section of trail being repaired will be closed between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Cyclists using the trail for commuting during regular business hours should be able to complete their trips before and after those times. Otherwise we've asked that where possible, trail users be allowed to carefully bypass work in progress. Informational signage and maps will be posted on site. See the FABB blog for more info about the meeting. The work is a major undertaking and will greatly benefit cyclists who use this important north-south trail connection. Thanks to VDOT for funding the work and listening to our concerns. Their efforts are very much appreciated.
Fairfax County Board Approves Funding for New Bike Projects
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recently approved over $200 million in funding for pedestrian and bicycle projects as part of a major 6-year transportation funding package. The majority of the projects are pedestrian sidewalks. Bicycle project funding was not identified separately. We've estimated that approximately $40 million is available for bike projects, approximately $7 million/year. This is a significant increase in funding from previous years although it is only a small portion (3%) of the nearly $1.3 billion in total transportation funding. Bike projects will be included in many of the road projects that were part of the package. Funds for improving bike access to the Silver Line stations are also available. Unfortunately none of these funds can be used for maintenance.
Meeting to Discuss Bike Lanes on Sherwood Hall Lane
On Wednesday, March 12 Fairfax DOT and VDOT are holding a meeting to discuss proposed bike lanes on Sherwood Hall Lane. This road is an important connection between Mt Vernon Parkway/Fort Hunt Rd and the Route 1 Corridor. Some nearby residents have voiced strong opposition to the plan. Cyclists are encouraged to attend the meeting and support the proposal. The meeting is from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Mount Vernon Governmental Center, 2511 Parkers Lane, Alexandria, VA 22306. See the meeting announcement for more details.
Fairfax County to hold Sidewalk Snow Removal Forum
At the Fairfax Co Board of Supervisors meeting on February 25 Hunter Mill District Supervisor Hudgins raised the issue of snow removal on sidewalks. She asked the Board to direct staff to hold a "forum for discussion of sidewalk snow removal." The Board has addressed this issue repeatedly in the past as we outlined in a recent blog post on snow-covered sidewalks and trails. We will suggest that snow removal on trails and bike lanes be included in the discussion. See the FABB blog for more info on Supervisor Hudgins' request. When a date for the forum is announced we'll spread the word via FABB social media.
- March 3 - National Women's Bicycling Forum
- March 4-6 - National Bike Summit (March 6 is Lobby Day)
- March 12, Wednesday - Sherwood Hall Lane public meeting, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Mount Vernon Governmental Center, 2511 Parkers Lane, Alexandria
- March 19, Wednesday, FABB Monthly Meeting, Vienna, VA
Labels: bicycle master plan, fabb newsletter, fairfax county parkway trail repaving, sherwood hall lane, snow
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Supervisor Hudgins asks for forum on sidewalk snow removal
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| W&OD Trail after snow clearing |
This will be a good opportunity to discuss ways to clear the most important walkways and bikeways of snow, especially those leading to activity and transit centers.
Some progress is being made in Fairfax. For the first time this year NVRPA staff removed snow on the W&OD Trail, and Reston Association regularly clears their trails of snow.
Below is the text of the Board Matter. Thanks to Supervisor Hudgins for taking the lead on this issue. When more information is available about the forum we'll pass it on:
BOARD MATTER
Supervisor Catherine M. Hudgins
Hunter Mill District
February 25, 2014
Sidewalk Snow Removal
Background:
As Fairfax County continues to clean up from the latest winter storm, once again the issue of snow removal on sidewalks has been brought up in the Hunter Mill District. The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors has directed County staff to work on a sidewalk snow removal policy five different times in the past from 2003 to the present. In the past, we had discussions on whether to regulate snow removal with an ordinance and we have even had coordinated community snow removal volunteer efforts. However, these measures continue to miss the mark without an ordinance or the structure of a coordinated agreement. The lack of pedestrian access during snow events causes safety issues for school children and transit users throughout the entire community. As portions of Fairfax County began to urbanize, the inability of pedestrian travel during snow events causes an unnecessary hindrance to our constituents. It is time to revisit this matter.
Proposed Action:
Madam Chairman, I move that the Board of Supervisors direct the County Executive and the Office of Public Affairs to provide a forum for discussion of sidewalk snow removal. The forum should include the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT), Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES), and community organizations. The goal of the forum is better coordination between these agencies to help provide safe access for school children, pedestrians, and transit customers.
Labels: NVRPA, reston, snow, supervisor hudgins, W and OD Trail
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Walking in the road to avoid snow-clogged sidewalks
This is what happens when sidewalks are not cleared near activity centers. The top photo shows a pedestrian walking in Sunset Hills Rd near the future Wiehle Metro station and several retail and commercial areas. The second photo shows that pedestrian standing in a snow bank waiting for the Fairfax Connector bus.The third photo shows a pedestrian at Wiehle Ave and Sunset Hills Rd adjacent to the new Wiehle Silver Line station. The final photo shows a dog walker using the partially cleared bike lane on Soapstone Dr. As we often see, bike lanes are used by more than just bike riders.
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| Sunset Hills Rd in Reston |
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| Pedestrian at bus stop on Sunset Hills Rd |
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| Near Wiehle Metro station |
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| Pedestrian walking in Soapstone Dr bike lane |
VDOT should tell their snow plow drivers to try to avoid dumping snow on curb ramps at intersections. VDOT and the county should identify key transportation trails used by cyclists and clear them of snow: the W&OD Trail (see FABB blog post about their efforts to clear snow), the Fairfax County Parkway Trail, and others.
The Fairfax Board of Supervisors has tried to address this issue in the past. I searched through Board meeting summaries for references to "snow" for the past several years. A common theme emerged. Every year there is an "historic" or "unprecedented" snow storm. The Board directs staff to look into the problem of clearing snow from sidewalks and trails. Nothing happens.
I shouldn't say that. After prompting from the Board the county started clearing snow from sidewalks on some county properties. The schools have gotten better about clearing snow adjacent to their property but the sidewalks and trails leading to schools are not cleared. Some progress has been made but much more needs to be done.
The following was extracted from those Board meeting summaries and is included below for reference purposes (and your reading enjoyment):
From the February 7, 2000 Board of Supervisors meeting summary:
17. WALKWAY SAFETY ISSUES FOLLOWING SNOWSTORMS (Tape 3)
Supervisor Mendelsohn stated that the snowstorms of the last few weeks brought to his attention a safety issue for students walking to school. With the completion of a sidewalk on one side and a hike/bike trail on the other side of Dranesville Road last June, Fairfax County Schools' Transportation Department discontinued bus service to Herndon High School students who lived within one mile of the school and could use the new trail as access to school.
Supervisor Mendelsohn stated that during the recent snowfalls no one cleared the sidewalks or trails of snow on Dranesville Road. It appears that no one is accepting responsibility for clearing this trail and sidewalk and that this same problem may be present along major roads in Fairfax County. Neither VDOT, the Schools, nor Public Works has offered a solution to this issue.
Therefore, Supervisor Mendelsohn moved that the Board direct the County Executive to address the issues of who owns the sidewalks and who is responsible for the maintenance of these walkways along major roads and report his findings as soon as possible.
Following discussion, Chairman Hanley relinquished the Chair to Vice-Chairman Hyland and asked to amend the motion to direct staff to also work with the School Division, and this was accepted.
Vice-Chairman Hyland returned the gavel to Chairman Hanley.
Supervisor Hudgins noted safety issues for senior citizens as well as students and asked to amend the motion to direct staff to publish and identify with the School Division the responsibility for clearing the walkways to inform the community and ensure that the snow is removed, and this was accepted.
Following further discussion, regarding public transit bus stops and public walkways, Chairman Hanley seconded the motion, as amended, which carried by a vote of nine, Supervisor McConnell being out of the room.
Supervisor Mendelsohn stated that the snowstorms of the last few weeks brought to his attention a safety issue for students walking to school. With the completion of a sidewalk on one side and a hike/bike trail on the other side of Dranesville Road last June, Fairfax County Schools' Transportation Department discontinued bus service to Herndon High School students who lived within one mile of the school and could use the new trail as access to school.
Supervisor Mendelsohn stated that during the recent snowfalls no one cleared the sidewalks or trails of snow on Dranesville Road. It appears that no one is accepting responsibility for clearing this trail and sidewalk and that this same problem may be present along major roads in Fairfax County. Neither VDOT, the Schools, nor Public Works has offered a solution to this issue.
Therefore, Supervisor Mendelsohn moved that the Board direct the County Executive to address the issues of who owns the sidewalks and who is responsible for the maintenance of these walkways along major roads and report his findings as soon as possible.
Following discussion, Chairman Hanley relinquished the Chair to Vice-Chairman Hyland and asked to amend the motion to direct staff to also work with the School Division, and this was accepted.
Vice-Chairman Hyland returned the gavel to Chairman Hanley.
Supervisor Hudgins noted safety issues for senior citizens as well as students and asked to amend the motion to direct staff to publish and identify with the School Division the responsibility for clearing the walkways to inform the community and ensure that the snow is removed, and this was accepted.
Following further discussion, regarding public transit bus stops and public walkways, Chairman Hanley seconded the motion, as amended, which carried by a vote of nine, Supervisor McConnell being out of the room.
42. SNOW REMOVAL FROM PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS (Tape 8)
Supervisor Hudgins commended the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) for its snow removal from the streets following the heavy snow accumulation from the February 15, 2003, snowstorm. She noted, however, that those residents who walk, bicycle, and use public transit face serious impediments. Several constituents called her office to express concerns about the dangerous conditions at bus stops. Since residents are encouraged to use public transportation as much as possible to relieve road congestion, particularly in inclement weather, she expressed her belief that more should be done to make conditions safe for pedestrians. She noted that the current standard is unacceptable because snow removal on streets makes conditions worse for pedestrians.
Accordingly, Supervisor Hudgins moved that the Board direct staff to work with the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, the Department of Transportation, and VDOT to determine what strategies can be taken to assist how snow removal from walkways, particularly at bus stops, can be accomplished to assist pedestrians using public transit after snowstorms. Supervisor Bulova seconded the motion, which carried by a vote of eight, Supervisor McConnell and Supervisor Mendelsohn being out of the room.
From the April 28, 2003 Board of Supervisors meeting summary:
Supervisor Hudgins commended the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) for its snow removal from the streets following the heavy snow accumulation from the February 15, 2003, snowstorm. She noted, however, that those residents who walk, bicycle, and use public transit face serious impediments. Several constituents called her office to express concerns about the dangerous conditions at bus stops. Since residents are encouraged to use public transportation as much as possible to relieve road congestion, particularly in inclement weather, she expressed her belief that more should be done to make conditions safe for pedestrians. She noted that the current standard is unacceptable because snow removal on streets makes conditions worse for pedestrians.
Accordingly, Supervisor Hudgins moved that the Board direct staff to work with the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, the Department of Transportation, and VDOT to determine what strategies can be taken to assist how snow removal from walkways, particularly at bus stops, can be accomplished to assist pedestrians using public transit after snowstorms. Supervisor Bulova seconded the motion, which carried by a vote of eight, Supervisor McConnell and Supervisor Mendelsohn being out of the room.
34. SNOW REMOVAL ORDINANCE (Tape 4)
Chairman Hanley said she received a letter from the Non-Motorized Transportation (Trails) Committee requesting that the County look into adopting a Snow Removal Ordinance. Although the creation of such an ordinance has been examined by the County in the past, the Trails Committee has made several recommendations that may merit another look at its feasibility. Additionally, this winter's harsh weather showed that while the County has made great progress in snow removal since the "Blizzard of '96" there are several areas of snow removal that can be improved, particularly related to pedestrian facilities and snow removal.
Therefore, Chairman Hanley asked unanimous consent that the Board direct staff to review the Trail's Committee's recommendations, particularly the recommendation for County maintenance staff to clear snow from sidewalks along the perimeter of the property, and provide the Board with its findings. Without objection, it was so ordered.
Following discussion, Supervisor Connolly asked unanimous consent that the schools be included in the survey. Without objection, the request was so ordered.
Chairman Hanley said she received a letter from the Non-Motorized Transportation (Trails) Committee requesting that the County look into adopting a Snow Removal Ordinance. Although the creation of such an ordinance has been examined by the County in the past, the Trails Committee has made several recommendations that may merit another look at its feasibility. Additionally, this winter's harsh weather showed that while the County has made great progress in snow removal since the "Blizzard of '96" there are several areas of snow removal that can be improved, particularly related to pedestrian facilities and snow removal.
Therefore, Chairman Hanley asked unanimous consent that the Board direct staff to review the Trail's Committee's recommendations, particularly the recommendation for County maintenance staff to clear snow from sidewalks along the perimeter of the property, and provide the Board with its findings. Without objection, it was so ordered.
Following discussion, Supervisor Connolly asked unanimous consent that the schools be included in the survey. Without objection, the request was so ordered.
16. A-2 – VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (VDOT) BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN POLICY REVIEW (10:47 a.m.)
Supervisor Hudgins moved that the Board concur in the recommendation of staff and approve the draft letter from Chairman Connolly to Secretary Clement transmitting the comments and recommendations to VDOT as contained in the Board Agenda Item dated February 9, 2004. Supervisor Bulova seconded the motion.
Discussion ensued with input from Christopher D. Wells, Pedestrian Program Manager, Department of Transportation.
Following discussion, Supervisor Hyland referenced Section 4.5, Maintenance, of the draft Virginia Department of Transportation Policy for Integrating Bicycle and Pedestrian Accommodations, and asked unanimous consent that the Board direct staff to provide a recommendation on whether citizens should be required to shovel and clear their sidewalks of snow and ice. Without objection, it was so ordered.
Supervisor Hudgins asked unanimous consent that the Board direct staff to concentrate on some level of population density or something that identifies the number of people, streets, pathways, and public facilities that are needed to be accessed and recommend the most feasible method of accomplishing the task of snow and ice removal. Without objection, it was so ordered.
Following additional discussion, the question was called on the motion and it carried by unanimous vote.
36. SNOW REMOVAL (12:18 p.m.)

Supervisor Gross said that the sudden snowstorm earlier this month brought many calls to her office concerning plowing the snow off the roads in neighborhoods. Just as important, and sometimes overlooked, are the sidewalks in front of residential and commercial properties. Children and adults, who depend on clear sidewalks as part of their daily routine, are put at risk of injury (or worse) when they are forced to walk on icy sections or along the edge of the road.
The Cities of Falls Church and Alexandria already have laws requiring property owners to clear their sidewalks. One constituent suggests a minimum requirement of a two foot wide path be cleared within the first 12 to 24 hours after snowfall.
Therefore, Supervisor Gross asked unanimous consent that the Board direct the County Executive to disseminate information on previous efforts to develop a policy addressing when property owners are responsible for sidewalks adjacent to their homes. Without objection, it was so ordered.
Discussion ensued regarding the possibility of not enacting a law, but instead urging that citizens voluntarily remove snow, and urging civic and homeowner associations to become involved in the snow removal process.
Supervisor Gross asked unanimous consent that the Board direct staff to circulate information regarding the County’s Policy for snow removal to the public. Without objection, it was so ordered.
From the May 24, 2011 Board of Supervisors meeting summary:
Supervisor Gross said that the sudden snowstorm earlier this month brought many calls to her office concerning plowing the snow off the roads in neighborhoods. Just as important, and sometimes overlooked, are the sidewalks in front of residential and commercial properties. Children and adults, who depend on clear sidewalks as part of their daily routine, are put at risk of injury (or worse) when they are forced to walk on icy sections or along the edge of the road.
The Cities of Falls Church and Alexandria already have laws requiring property owners to clear their sidewalks. One constituent suggests a minimum requirement of a two foot wide path be cleared within the first 12 to 24 hours after snowfall.
Therefore, Supervisor Gross asked unanimous consent that the Board direct the County Executive to disseminate information on previous efforts to develop a policy addressing when property owners are responsible for sidewalks adjacent to their homes. Without objection, it was so ordered.
Discussion ensued regarding the possibility of not enacting a law, but instead urging that citizens voluntarily remove snow, and urging civic and homeowner associations to become involved in the snow removal process.
Supervisor Gross asked unanimous consent that the Board direct staff to circulate information regarding the County’s Policy for snow removal to the public. Without objection, it was so ordered.
35. ESTABLISHING A VOLUNTEER PROGRAM TO CLEAR COUNTY TRAILS AND SIDEWALKS (12:26 p.m.)
Supervisor Cook said that trails and sidewalks are key assets and pieces of infrastructure that are used not only for exercise and enjoyment, but also commuting. Unfortunately, due to budgetary constraints, the County is unable to ensure these particular pieces of infrastructure stay "clean, clear and accessible.” To address this glaring need, the County's Trails and Sidewalks Committee is asking that volunteer support for cleaning and clearing sidewalk and asphalt trail surfaces be authorized to help maintain public walkways in an acceptable condition. He noted that cleaning and clearing does not include significant maintenance projects, but rather minor upkeep efforts such as raking, edging, and trash and debris removal.

Supervisor Cook referred to his written Board Matter which includes a set of suggested guidelines, drafted by the Trails and Sidewalks Committee which explain the vision the Committee has for this undertaking. They seek to develop an informal program that encourages and organizes volunteers to assist in the clearing of trails and sidewalks.
Supervisor Cook said that his community engagement initiative has worked to inspire and train residents to take ownership of neighborhoods by working together to address opportunities for growth as well as meeting challenges.
Therefore, Supervisor Cook moved that the Board direct the County Executive to develop guidelines for implementing a citizen volunteer trail and sidewalk maintenance program, and present these guidelines to the Board at a future date in this calendar year for consideration. As part of the development of such guidelines, the County Executive should consult with the County Attorney to insure that any legal liability issues are addressed appropriately in the program guidelines. Supervisor Herrity seconded the motion. Discussion ensued regarding:
Supervisor Foust asked to amend the motion to change the reference in number 1 of the proposed Guidelines for Volunteer Efforts from “. . . walkway surface (either concrete or asphalt)” to “all trails,” and this was accepted.
Supervisor McKay asked to amend the motion to include coordinating with the schools regarding prioritizing routes for snow removal, and this was accepted.
The question was called on the motion, as amended, and it carried by unanimous vote.
Supervisor Cook said that trails and sidewalks are key assets and pieces of infrastructure that are used not only for exercise and enjoyment, but also commuting. Unfortunately, due to budgetary constraints, the County is unable to ensure these particular pieces of infrastructure stay "clean, clear and accessible.” To address this glaring need, the County's Trails and Sidewalks Committee is asking that volunteer support for cleaning and clearing sidewalk and asphalt trail surfaces be authorized to help maintain public walkways in an acceptable condition. He noted that cleaning and clearing does not include significant maintenance projects, but rather minor upkeep efforts such as raking, edging, and trash and debris removal.

Supervisor Cook referred to his written Board Matter which includes a set of suggested guidelines, drafted by the Trails and Sidewalks Committee which explain the vision the Committee has for this undertaking. They seek to develop an informal program that encourages and organizes volunteers to assist in the clearing of trails and sidewalks.
Supervisor Cook said that his community engagement initiative has worked to inspire and train residents to take ownership of neighborhoods by working together to address opportunities for growth as well as meeting challenges.
Therefore, Supervisor Cook moved that the Board direct the County Executive to develop guidelines for implementing a citizen volunteer trail and sidewalk maintenance program, and present these guidelines to the Board at a future date in this calendar year for consideration. As part of the development of such guidelines, the County Executive should consult with the County Attorney to insure that any legal liability issues are addressed appropriately in the program guidelines. Supervisor Herrity seconded the motion. Discussion ensued regarding:
Supervisor Foust asked to amend the motion to change the reference in number 1 of the proposed Guidelines for Volunteer Efforts from “. . . walkway surface (either concrete or asphalt)” to “all trails,” and this was accepted.
Supervisor McKay asked to amend the motion to include coordinating with the schools regarding prioritizing routes for snow removal, and this was accepted.
The question was called on the motion, as amended, and it carried by unanimous vote.
Labels: fairfax county board of supervisors, snow
Friday, February 14, 2014
Snow-covered W&OD Trail at Hunter Mill Road crossing
The W&OD Trail at Hunter Mill Road looking east toward Vienna. I didn't see any ski tracks, one reason that NVRPA has given for not clearing snow from the trail. Even if there were skiers, there are two trails and skiers could use the unpaved trail. Let's hope the NVRPA snow blower makes a pass through Herndon, Reston, and Vienna and parts east in the near future.
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| W&OD Trail at Hunter Mill Road |
Labels: snow, W and OD Trail
Thursday, January 23, 2014
Clearing snow on the W&OD Trail
After the heavy snow this week I contacted Karl Mohle, W&OD Trail manager, to ask about plowing of the trail. NVRPA, who own and manage the trail, purchased a snow blower, not a plow, a couple of years ago and have not used it much due to the lack of snow cover. Given the cold temperatures and amount of snow, it will be a while before this snow will melt.Karl said his crew plans to begin blowing snow today, depending on weather, trail conditions, staff availability, etc. They will likely leave from their Smith Switch office and head east. If so, this will be the first time that I'm aware of that large segments of the trail will be cleared of snow. If you see the blower out there, let us know how it's going.
Labels: snow, W and OD Trail
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Snow tires needed today
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| Hunter ready to roll |
Here he is getting ready to leave our place. His hybrid bike has studded snow tires but Hunter said that the W&OD Trail, which he used for most of his route, was mostly clear of snow. At the usual spot just west of Hunter Mill Road it was snow/ice covered but other than that he had no real problems. It sure helps to have snow tires.
Labels: snow, snow tires, W and OD Trail
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Vienna Town Council votes down snow removal ordinance
While we are aware of the dangers of riding on the sidewalk, many people do it anyway. In fact, Vienna Police encourage people to ride on the sidewalk and not in the street on Maple Ave. Not having plowed sidewalks prevents these people, many of whom depend on bicycles as their main form of transportation, to get to jobs and other places. Children walking to school in the winter would also benefit from the ordinance. It works in Alexandria and other Arlington and we think it could be made to work in Vienna.
One of the main arguments against the ordinance is that even when sidewalks are cleared, snow plows will often dump snow from the road onto the sidewalk. I assume the same thing happens in other communities and they figure out ways to deal with it. Otherwise, the message this sends to residents is that we care more about moving cars than moving people.
The only votes in favor were from Councilwomen Laurie DiRocco and Carey Sienicki. We hope the town reconsiders in the future.
To view the video of the public hearing, it's at about 22:40 of Part 1.
Labels: sidewalk, snow, town of vienna
Saturday, February 5, 2011
W&OD Trail conditions
The W&OD Trail is a critical transportation link for N. Virginia cyclists and we're excited that NVRPA plans to start plowing when there's an accumulation of snow. The latest snowfall has persisted on the Trail for a while. We wanted to see if it was passable between Reston and Vienna, so we rode today from around Sunrise Valley Dr in Reston to downtown Vienna.NVRPA uses a truck to conduct maintenance along the trail, and the ruts of that truck are now mostly clear of snow. It's a real test of your cycling abilities to keep within the sometimes narrow track. We were able to ride about 95% of the way. We occasionally stopped to walk along the short icy sections. The west side of the hill near Buckthorn Lane is a little icy but its passable. The trip took a little longer than normal, but the trail is definitely rideable, although passing other Trail users is a challenge so you'll need to slow or stop to get by.
Labels: snow, W and OD Trail
